Fort Pierce highlights youth programs, new online portal after Leisure Services’ first full year under city management

Deputy City Manager Davoushay Johnson on Monday gave the Fort Pierce City Commission an annual review of the Leisure Services Division’s first full year under Administrative Services, saying the department served roughly 355 participants across four major programs and earned high satisfaction scores from families.

“We provided an affordable cost of $25 per week following a $50 registration,” Johnson said, listing summer camp field trips, martial‑arts and football and cheer programs as part of the division’s offerings. He said a grant from the St. Lucie County Children’s Services Council allowed staff to provide hot meals during summer programs and supplement kitchen staffing.

The presentation detailed staffing and operations changes implemented since Leisure Services moved under Johnson’s oversight in April 2025, including hiring a manager in June 2025 and filling several frontline positions. Johnson said the division currently has four on‑site employees and three vacancies but is working to stabilize leadership and operations.

Jabari Williams, Leisure Services manager, joined the presentation and highlighted youth athletics success: several Firehawks teams won division championships and participants received championship rings. Williams praised volunteer coaches and the program’s focus on skill development and sportsmanship.

Byron Daniels, who said he drives from Fort Lauderdale to lead the new karate program, described competition success and additional plans such as self‑defense and senior awareness programs. “We went to four competitions, and our kids won all competitions,” Daniels said.

Commissioners praised the department’s work and urged expansion of offerings, including swim lessons, basketball and soccer. Commissioner Gaines encouraged staff to recruit partners to expand swim access and asked the department to continue emphasizing academics alongside athletics.

Johnson also previewed a digital transformation: the city plans to launch the Tyler Parks & Recreation module in early 2026 to move registration, membership and special‑event permitting online. The change is intended to reduce paper processes and make program registration and facility rentals simpler for residents and youth sports organizations.

On program outcomes, Johnson cited parent survey results: 71% overall satisfaction, an average likelihood to recommend of 8.6 out of 10, and specific strengths in coaching quality and a safe, supportive environment. He also listed opportunities for improvement the division will address in 2026, including clearer practice schedules, additional cheer mats and greater transparency on playing time for first‑year athletes.

The commission encouraged staff to continue volunteer training and community outreach as the department pursues growth in 2026. The presentation concluded with a brief video recap and a round of public thanks to coaches, volunteers and families.